Executive Summary:

Enviroculture successfully delivered vital accessibility improvements to the Campbell Trail and Viewpoint at Lake Vyrnwy (Llyn Efyrnwy), enhancing access for a wider range of users while supporting biodiversity. The project, part of the LEAF initiative, was delivered on time to specification, creating safer, more inclusive woodland trails for the local community and visitors.

About the Client:

The project was commissioned as part of the Llyn Efyrnwy Accessible Forests (LEAF) initiative, delivered by Hafren Dyfrdwy in partnership with the RSPB. LEAF is supported by the Woodland Investment Grant, part of the Welsh Government's National Forest programme, jointly funded by the Welsh Government and The National Lottery Heritage Fund. The project aims to improve biodiversity and woodland access across Wales.

The Challenge:

The Campbell Trail upgrade presented several technical and environmental challenges. The existing route ran along steep, uneven ground, requiring excavation into rocky terrain and the side of the bank to achieve the correct, accessible gradient. The remote woodland location and ground conditions, including unforeseen drainage issues, added complexity. A protected historic stone wall along the trail also restricted excavation, demanding alternative construction solutions.

The Solution:

Enviroculture delivered the works using a carefully planned methodology designed to minimise environmental impact while achieving high accessibility standards. Key to this approach was the use of appropriately sized plant, including a 2.7T excavator, 2T excavator, and a 1T tracked dumper, allowing precise excavation and material handling in the restricted woodland environment.

The works included:
- Excavating into the rocky terrain and steep banks to achieve a consistent, accessible gradient.
- Installing a new, level trail surface to Paths for All “Outdoor Accessibility Guidance” standards.
- Constructing an accessible parking space at the trailhead.
- Replacing and adjusting infrastructure along the route.
- Improving the switchback steps for safer access.
- Building a stone ramp over a protected historic wall.
All work followed strict environmental protocols to protect biodiversity throughout.

The Implementation:

The project was delivered in close collaboration with Hafren Dyfrdwy, RSPB, and other stakeholders. Key phases included site assessments, ecological checks, excavation, surfacing, and infrastructure upgrades. Despite weather challenges and complex ground conditions, the works were completed to programme.

Additional Projects and Challenges:

- Unforeseen drainage issues were swiftly addressed with reactive solutions to prevent future waterlogging.
- The protected wall required an alternative approach, with a carefully designed stone ramp built over the area.
- Steep banks and rocky ground demanded specialist plant and skilled operators, with strict adherence to the risk assessment.
These challenges were overcome without delay to the project timeline.

The Results:

• Fully upgraded accessible trail meeting Paths for All standards.
  - Safe, durable, inclusive access for a wider range of visitors.
  - Improved visitor experience at the Campbell Viewpoint.
  - Enhanced woodland biodiversity through sensitive construction.
  - Positive community and stakeholder feedback.

Lessons Learned:

Early identification of drainage risks and proactive stakeholder collaboration were key to project success. The project highlighted the importance of flexibility and environmental awareness in sensitive woodland works.

Next Steps / Future Plans:

Further LEAF projects are planned to enhance woodland access and biodiversity across Wales, with Enviroculture well-positioned to support future works.